In March this year OSJCT set out on a journey to recruit overseas nurses, beginning with the initial interview process of nurses from many countries (India, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Saudi Arabia to name a few), all with different specialist nursing backgrounds. All nurses that applied were really passionate about adult and elderly nursing care. Feedback from them during the interview process was that the care provided in the UK for older adults was very different from their home countries and they wanted to build upon their skill set within the care sector, along with a desire to work and live in the UK.

On arrival the nurses have a well-planned out training plan before they sit their OSCE exam, a practical exam which tests clinical competency. The first part of the training is an OSJCT induction whereby the cohort of nurses come together to learn about the Trust, safeguarding adults, and living with dementia. From here the nurses set off on a week away to Uxbridge, London to begin their OSCE exam preparation training. And finally, the nurses sit their OSCE exam which allows them to apply for a UK nurse PIN and become a registered nurse once passed.

Four homes from OSJCT’s portfolio have been identified as dedicated training homes: Millbrook Lodge and Monkscroft Care Centre in Gloucestershire, Athelstan House in Wiltshire, and Isis Care Home in Oxfordshire. In the run up to the nurse’s arrival, the training home managers and their teams have been working hard to prepare and ensure each nurse will have a great first experience within the trust. Each home has designated practice assessor nurses to give clinical guidance during the training and induction period.

Katie-Jayne Price, Overseas Nurses Programme Cohort Officer commented: “Throughout the whole process, OSJCT have stayed true to its values, by empowering individuals to reach their full potential and respecting each and every nurse’s unique experiences. Once the nurses secure an offer of employment, we have supported them every step of the way, including flights, accommodation packages, resettlement into their new location, training and 1:1 support.”

Nine overseas nurses are already on training in the UK or settling into their training homes. Maricar Pagaduan came from Saudia Arabia and is originally from the Philippines.  Maricar, pictured second from left in the group photo, said: “We are learning so much, the programme is challenging me in a positive way; I can’t wait to pass my OSCE now and continue learning within the care home.”